Neo-natal support group has worked wonders

Staff and mums from the Little Wonders celebrate their first birthday - C130830-1

Published:06:59Wednesday 26 June 2013

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A SUPPORT group for parents whose babies were cared for at St Richard’s Hospital’s neo-natal unit has celebrated its first anniversary.

The Little Wonders group, which meets each month, was set up last year by staff from the Chichester hospital – who gave their time for free to establish the network.

And last Wednesday, staff from the Chichester hospital organised the birthday party with a teddy bear’s picnic theme at the St James’ Road Children’s Centre in Chichester.

Nursery nurse Andrea Field, who was nominated for a staff award for her efforts, alongside her colleagues, said it was a privilege to be able to share in the birthday celebrations.

“The parents really value the group and they have supported it really well, so it was a chance to say thank you to them as well as to celebrate. It is nice for the staff too – when babies are with us for a long time we tend to build up a relationship with the parents as well, and so it is great to be able to stay in touch,” she said.

“It is so wonderful to be able to see the children growing up, to be able to help the parents, and to see the parents develop friendships and a support network among themselves.”

The group is keen to hear from local businesses and organisations who can help staff improve the support they can give to the parents and children. If you can donate arts and craft equipment, or foam mats for the children to lie on, or simply offer financial support, email andrea.field@wsht.nhs.uk or call Andrea on 01243 788122 ext 2985.

On August 31, Andrea and colleague Amanda Gray will be jumping out of a plane to raise money to support the work of the neo-natal unit. To sponsor their skydive visit www.justgiving.com/andrea-amanda